This introductory guide provides common roofing mistakes and how not to make them!
The functionality of the roof
The basic function of a roof is to provide protection from the elements. Not only does a roof enable a home to retain heat in the winter, and cool air in the summer, but it also shelters people and their possessions from water. With this in mind, your roof is one of the most important aspects of your property.
However, it is no secret that a damaged roof can lead to further issues and unwanted exposure to the weather. It is therefore vital that any roof-related repairs on your property are carried out by a roofing expert. So, to ensure that you can find a skilled and experienced roofer, let’s look at three of the most common roofing mistakes, and the steps you can take to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Hire an inexperienced contractor
It might seem intuitive, but choosing a contractor is probably the most important part of the roofing process. Generally speaking, always try to look for local contractors with proper licensing, insurance, warranties, and an established reputation.
Hiring a local roofer has several advantages. For instance, a roofer that has already worked on a property in your area is more likely to have a familiarity with roofing jobs similar to your own.
Word-of-mouth recommendations are a fantastic way to ascertain the quality of work that a roofer is capable of. With that in mind, make sure you ask family, friends, and neighbors for referrals.
Moreover, there are plenty of online resources out there that can help you to track down roofers in your community. Websites like Yell.com can make finding contact details for roofers in your area incredibly easy, and you can also do some research of your own using the Best Roofing Contractor Directory to find top-rated tradespeople at the click of a button.
As always, when comparing roofers, and reading online reviews, keep in mind that the individual circumstances and scale of your roofing project mean that your experiences and final costs might vary. Each project is unique.
Common roofing mistakes #2: Improper flashing installation
Flashing is a sheet of thin, impervious material used to prevent water penetration or seepage into a building. It also directs the flow of moisture in walls. Flashing is especially useful at junctions, such as:
- Roof hips and valleys
- Joints between roofs and vertical walls
- Roof intersections or projections (chimneys, dormers, vent pipes, and window openings)
When replacing a roof, it’s important that your roofer does not reuse old flashing. Although old flashing can appear to be in good condition, this reuse can lead to issues in the future.
Consequently, always make sure that the professional replaces any old flashing with new flashing that is less likely to wear down. Various materials can be used for flashing, including aluminum, copper, and stainless steel.
Choosing the right material for your roof will depend on:
- Your budget
- The durability needed
- Visibility
- Materials that the flashing will come into contact with
Similarly, the contractor should install any new flashing properly. If the flashing on your roof is misaligned, improperly overlapped, or if it is insufficiently fastened, then there is a chance that your roof might not be sufficiently prepared to protect your property and possessions from ice, rain, and snow.
Mistake #3: Covering old shingles
Roofing shingles are flat or curved tiles that interlock or overlap in a way that channels water off a pitched roof. Shingles are made from several different materials and can vary in terms of:
- Cost
- Weight
- Durability
- Color
- Style
When replacing a portion or a small part of a roof, it is important to remove any old shingles and replace them with new ones. Placing new shingles on top of any old ones creates an environment that is conducive to moisture and dirt, leading to deterioration and damage. Be that as it may, in order for your roof to be properly protected from rain, snow, and ice, a moisture barrier is a must.
Comparatively, proper moisture protection should be installed underneath any new shingles. There are other things to consider when fitting shingles too.
For example, if your roofer uses nails that are too short, you run the risk of your shingles becoming loose, leading to shifting, and premature replacements and repairs. Correspondingly, proper moisture protection should be installed underneath any new shingles.
By the same token, nail placement is also key to the integrity of your roof. Always check that your roofer places all nails underneath the top layer of shingles to reduce exposure to damaging sun, wind, and moisture, and to prevent corrosion.
Conclusions about avoiding common roofing mistakes
Ultimately, your roof is one of the most important and visible parts of your home. Although some deterioration of your roof is normal over time, repairs and replacements are essential measures for protecting your home from almost any weather condition. Above all, by hiring an experienced roofer, you can enjoy the peace of mind that your roof will meet your needs for many years to come.
Are you thinking about putting your home up for sale? Installing a modern roof is a fantastic way to add value to your property. For more home improvement tips, check out these simple steps for selling your home quickly.